For Mei Zhang, travel has always held a deeper purpose. Growing up in a small village amidst Yunnan’s natural beauty, she developed an instinctive connection to the land and its traditions. This bond shaped her vision for WildChina, which she founded in 2000, with a simple yet profound goal: to change how people experienced China. Her vision wasn’t about ticking boxes on a checklist, but about crafting journeys that immerse travelers in the richness of China’s landscapes and cultures.
The core of Mei’s work lies in her belief that travel is a force for transformation, not just for those who journey, but also for the places they visit. This philosophy has steered WildChina from the beginning, crafting travel experiences that celebrate the authenticity of China, while also protecting its heritage. In a world of fast-paced travel, Mei has championed a slower, more intentional approach, where travelers engage deeply with the destinations they visit, forming lasting connections with the communities and environments they encounter.
Mei’s recognition by Condé Nast China as one of the travel industry’s movers and shakers, making extraordinary contributions to responsible travel, reflects her commitment to a kind of travel that gives back. Whether it’s protecting the agricultural heritage of rural Yunnan, or encouraging travelers to support local livelihoods, her work is a response to the question: how can travel make a positive impact? This question drives every decision at WildChina, guiding travelers to not only experience the beauty of a place but to understand it, and in turn, contribute to its preservation.
In 2022, Mei furthered her commitment to environmental sustainability by enrolling at the University of California, Berkeley, to begin a PhD in environmental science. Her goal is to ensure that future generations of travelers can embark on life-changing journeys while contributing to the preservation of these precious destinations.
This is the essence of Mei Zhang’s work—creating a bridge between people and place. Mei’s recognition is a testament to the values she upholds—travel as a means to understand, to respect, and to protect. Through WildChina, Mei continues to inspire travelers to walk a different path, one that leads to a deeper understanding of why we travel.
By Gabrielle Keepfer
